Oliver Cromwell: 'Not only strike while the iron is hot, but make it hot by striking.'

Not only strike while the iron is hot, but make it hot by striking.

The quote by Oliver Cromwell, "Not only strike while the iron is hot, but make it hot by striking," is a powerful statement that encapsulates the essence of proactive and persistent action. It advises individuals to not only take advantage of opportunities when they arise but also to actively create those opportunities through their own initiative. The quote emphasizes the importance of actively engaging with the world, harnessing one's own abilities, and exerting effort to bring about desired outcomes.In a straightforward sense, Cromwell's quote encourages individuals to capitalize on favorable circumstances when they present themselves. It reminds us that opportunities in life are often fleeting and may not come around again. Therefore, when the "iron is hot," or when circumstances align favorably, it is crucial to strike and seize the moment. This notion aligns with the idea of being decisive, intuitive, and not hesitating when opportunities arise.However, the quote goes beyond the mere act of seizing opportunities by urging individuals to "make it hot by striking." This sentence can be interpreted as a call for individuals to actively create favorable conditions themselves, rather than solely relying on external factors. It suggests that the path to success often requires more than waiting for the right moments to come to us; it requires our active engagement and determination.This concept can be further explored through the lens of philosophical thinking. One interesting concept that arises is the balance between fate and free will. While some individuals may argue that success is largely dependent on external circumstances, Cromwell's quote challenges this notion by emphasizing the significance of personal agency. It suggests that we can shape our own destiny by actively participating in the world and taking control of our actions.By connecting the quote to philosophical concepts such as determinism and existentialism, a juxtaposition emerges. Determinism suggests that external factors or fate play a significant role in determining one's life outcomes, while existentialism emphasizes personal responsibility and the power of individual choice. Cromwell's quote aligns more closely with the existentialist perspective, highlighting the importance of personal actions and the impact they have on shaping one's life.In essence, the quote by Oliver Cromwell serves as a reminder of the proactive role we can play in our own lives. It encourages us to not only wait for favorable circumstances but actively pursue our goals and ambitions. By striking while the iron is hot and making it hot by striking, we take control of our own destiny and become architects of our success. This philosophy challenges the notion of complete reliance on external factors and emphasizes the importance of personal agency, making it a powerful and inspiring concept to ponder.